1. How can you help promote unity within the Davis Harris Patterson Family?

2. What contributions can you make to strengthen the family bond?

3. What does the Davis Harris Patterson family mean to you ?

                                                             1st & 2nd Place Winners of the
                                            Davis Harris Patterson Scholarship Essay Contest

Below are all the excellent essay's that were submitted. We want to encourage all family students to continue to participate. We are proud of each and everyone of you.


1st     Morgan Kennedi Bell Davis Harris Patterson Family Reunion July 2025
 
Family is much deeper than the title itself. According to Oxford Languages, the word family is defined as, “all the descendants of a common ancestor”. Although I agree with the definition, to me, family is so much more. The Davis Harris Patterson family has taught me that family is the village that helps you to grow, to laugh with you and to cry, to pick you up when one is to fall, to motivate you and most importantly show up for you. Since many of us live in different states, at a young age I was shown by my older relatives to make time for family. Of course, being younger I did not understand it. Now, it has instilled in me to be family oriented. When talking with many of my peers, a lot of them have not gone to a family reunion or even know the importance of a family reunion. I am glad that I have gotten the opportunity to attend each family reunion growing up. Traveling to Ohio, going on cruises, different parts of Florida or just staying in Alabama for family reunions has always been something I have anticipated. To watch my mother, grandmother and aunt take on tasks to create the itinerary for family reunions has also taught me that it takes a team to get things done. I can truly say no matter the location of the family reunion, we always have a great time. Without family, none of it could get done. I can recall a moment at the last family reunion where my cousins and I got lost on the cruise. I was crying and did not see a familiar face anywhere to be found. It was not until I found a long lost cousin and they helped me to calm down. This situation goes to show the importance of family, and knowing who your family is, and simply helping those who are in need. Now that I am older I appreciate that the Davis Harris Patterson family does not allow distance to keep us away. When I am visiting my grandmother and someone calls I admire our shared conversations now. I am grateful to have a family that checks up on me and supports me from miles away. One experience that I will always remember is when I realized my cousins from up north had accents. I was shocked, but that was a learning moment for me. It taught me that we are all different but we all share the same heritage. I appreciate that our family has a website where relatives can share new information. It helps everyone to be updated whether that is about a new addition to the family , a graduation, or a wedding. Being that now I am a part of the upcoming generation, it is now my job to continue the rich legacy that my family the Davis Harris Patterson has instilled in me.
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2nd         By: Chase Morgan
 
Promoting unity within a family is important for the well-being of all members. To have a sense of family unity, family members will all have to learn to prioritize the family. This may mean making some sacrifices in other areas, but the sacrifices may lead to a stronger family unit. Some things we can do include avoiding putting work before family plans, making time for each other, planning activities that everyone can enjoy, encouraging open communication between family members, and creating traditions that everyone can participate in. One way to create a safe, open and supportive environment that helps promote meaningful communication and build family unity is through family meetings. Family meetings are an opportunity for everyone to come together and discuss important issues or concerns. It’s also a great way to share ideas and plan activities that everyone can enjoy. This can be done through zoom or a group call. Another way to promote unity within our family is by instilling a strong belief in family and unity. This can be done by creating a family mission statement, a family crest, or by establishing core values that everyone can agree on. By doing this, we will be able to create a sense of purpose and direction for our family. Sharing household responsibilities and assigning specific chores is another way to promote unity within our family. By doing this, we'll be able to teach the children the importance of responsibility and accountability. It’s also a great way to show the kids that everyone has an important role to play in the family. Establishing routines is another way to promote unity within the family. Routines help create structure and predictability in your daily life. This can be especially helpful for children who thrive on routine and consistency. Seeking spiritual experiences is another way to promote unity within our family. This can be done by attending church together or by participating in other religious activities like visiting one family member church for Easter to show support. By doing this, we'll be able to create a sense of shared values and beliefs. Having fun together is another way to promote unity within our family. This can be done by planning activities that everyone can enjoy such as game nights or movie nights. It’s also a great way to create lasting memories with loved ones. Creating traditions, family pride, and family culture is another way to promote unity within our family. This can be done by celebrating holidays together or by creating our own unique traditions. By doing this, we’ll be able to create a sense of belonging and identity for the family. By: Chase Morgan Avoiding finger pointing and blaming is another way to promote unity within our family. Instead of focusing on what went wrong, try focusing on what someone else can do better next time. It’s also important to remember that everyone makes mistakes and that it’s okay to forgive each other. Everyone shares in both successes and failures is another way to promote unity within our family. By doing this, we’ll be able to create a sense of teamwork and collaboration within the family. These our just a few ways that we as Davis Harris Patterson Family can promote unity, love, and trust.
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Davis/Harris/Patterson Scholarship Essay
 
“What contributions can you make to strengthen the family bond?”
By Octavian Brown, Jr.
 
 
The family is the foundation of our society, and it plays an essential role in shaping us as individuals. A strong family bond is crucial for the overall growth and development of all its members. However, in today's fast-paced world, where everyone is busy with their own lives, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of family. Therefore, it's essential to make a conscious effort to strengthen the family bond, and here are a few ways in which I  can contribute to it.
 
Firstly, communication is the key to any healthy relationship, and it's no different in the case of a family. It's important to have open and honest communication with each other. As a member of the family, I  can initiate conversations, share your thoughts and feelings, and listen to others without judgment. This will help in building trust, understanding, and respect for each other, which are essential elements of a strong family bond.
 
Secondly, spending quality time together is another way to strengthen the family bond. In today's busy world, it's easy to get caught up in work, school, and other activities, leaving little time for family. However, it's important to make time for each other and plan activities that everyone can enjoy. This could be as simple as having meals together, playing games, going for walks, or taking a vacation. These activities will not only help in creating happy memories but also strengthen the family bond.
 
Thirdly, supporting each other during tough times is a crucial aspect of a strong family bond. Life is not always a bed of roses, and everyone goes through tough times at some point. As a family, it's essential to stand by each other during these times, offer emotional support, and help in finding solutions. This will not only strengthen the family bond but also create a sense of security and trust among its members.
 
Fourthly, respecting each other's differences is another way to strengthen the family bond. Every individual is unique, and it's important to accept and appreciate our differences. As a member of the family, I  can try to understand and respect each other's opinions, beliefs, and values. This will create an atmosphere of mutual respect and tolerance, which is essential for a strong family bond.
 
Lastly, taking responsibility for your actions is another way to contribute to strengthening the family bond. As a member of the family, it's important to take responsibility for your actions and apologize when you make mistakes. This will not only show that you are accountable for your actions but also set an example for others to follow. It will also create an atmosphere of forgiveness and understanding, which is essential for a strong family bond.
 
In conclusion, a strong family bond is essential for the overall growth and development of all members. I can contribute to strengthening the family bond by communicating openly, spending quality time together, supporting each other during tough times, respecting each other's differences, and taking responsibility for your actions. By doing so, I will not only create a happy and healthy family but also set an example for others to follow. Remember a family that prays together, grows, and stays together.
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Keenon Parham 

To Begin, The Davis Harris Patterson family means a lot to me. As a family, we have experienced a lot of things together.Being a part of this family is a true honor and a source of respect. 
Being apart of this family comes with a lot of positive things, such as having others around you that are willing to be with you every step of the way with your life-making decisions and having older generations pour their wisdom down into the younger crowd of the family, which is something that I will cherish forever and be thankful for. Not many families are willing to do that, so I am very grateful for every single person in the family. No matter what you do right or wrong, the family is willing to help and talk to each other through everything.
 This family shows love, integrity, perseverance, fellowship, and many other things that show what this family is all about.  From Google, a source states that "in every conceivable manner, the family is a link to our past, and a bridge to our future." - Alex Haley stated.  To elaborate on that, According to the family website https://davisharrisfamily.myevent.com/3/poll.htm states that ¨Sam Davis Sr. met a young woman whose name was Cora Lee Patterson. Cora and Sam were united in holy matrimony in Tuskegee, Alabama, and to this union, eleven children were born.  Each child's name came from the holy bible;  this shows that how the family first started, led to 11 children being born and started a connection in the family that has been brought through generations all the way to today's time
. As a child of this family, it also means being connected to a large group of people who are always there for you. It means having people that you can rely on no matter what, who will always support you, fight for you, laugh with you, eat with you, pray with you, go to church with you, worship God together, and even watch the football games on Sunday night. Family is a way of belonging to something larger, more permanent, and substantial than just an individual. Family gives you roots, a sense of identity, and a network of support. 
                Coming together on reunions and get togethers is fun and meaningful Spending quality family time is important and should be prioritized. It helps build strong relationships between family members, strengthens the bond between them, and can be great for health. Also, being together can be as simple as cooking a meal together, having a movie night, or playing a board game. Regular family time allows us to share experiences, learn from each other, and appreciate our connections. It can also provide great opportunities to just have fun and laugh. Family time can be enjoyed by all ages, and everyone can contribute in their own way. Setting aside that special time together helps us build stronger, more meaningful relationships which last a lifetime. 
 Family reunions are a great way to catch up with relatives you haven't seen for a while and get to know each other better.  Bringing together different generations and learning about their experiences and stories is a great way to gain insight into family history and traditions.  In conclusion, being a family member of the Davis, Harris, and Patterons is a honor, and i would not give it up for anything.
Introduction
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Charles Morgan lll (Tre)

Family bonds are some of the most important relationships we have in life. Strong family bonds can provide support and love throughout life’s challenges, whereas weak family bonds can lead to feelings of isolation and detachment. The good news is that there are many ways to strengthen family bonds and prevent this from happening. In this essay, I will share with you five basic objections and techniques that can help you strengthen your family bonds.
 
Objection 1: "We're too busy."
 
One of the most common objections to strengthening family bonds is the perception that there is simply not enough time. Between work, school, extracurricular activities, and other obligations, it can feel like there are not enough hours in the day.
 
Technique 1: Prioritize Family Time.
 
The first technique to overcome this objection is to prioritize family time. Whether it’s sitting down to dinner together or taking a family vacation, make sure to set aside time each week or month for family activities. By prioritizing family time, you can create space for meaningful connection and reinforce the importance of family as a unit.
 
Objection 2: "We don't have anything in common."
 
Another objection that can stand in the way of strengthening family bonds is the belief that family members do not have anything in common. This can lead to feelings of distance and disconnection.
 
Technique 2: Find Shared Experiences.
 
To overcome this objection, find shared experiences that can bring family members closer together. This could involve trying new hobbies or activities, playing games, or watching movies together. By finding activities that everyone can enjoy, you can create shared experiences that help to forge stronger bonds.
 
Objection 3: "We don't communicate well."
 
Another challenge that can impede family bonding is poor communication. This can result in misunderstandings and conflict, which can drive family members apart.
 
Technique 3: Practice Active Listening.
 
To improve communication within your family, practice active listening. This means actively engaging with what someone else is saying, without interrupting or judging. By practicing active listening, you can show respect for each other's perspectives and work towards greater understanding and unity.
 
Objection 4: "We don't support each other."
 
A lack of support is another obstacle that can hamper family bonds. When individuals do not feel supported by their family members, they may withdraw or become resentful.
 
Technique 4: Show Support.
 
To overcome this obstacle, show support for your family members. This could involve attending events and activities that are important to them, providing emotional support during difficult times, or offering practical assistance when needed. By showing support, you can foster positivity and resilience within your family unit.
 
Objection 5: "We have too many conflicts."
 
Finally, family conflicts can be a significant challenge to building strong bonds. Whether it’s sibling rivalry or disagreements over parenting styles, conflicts can sour relationships and undermine the sense of family.
 
Technique 5: Practice Forgiveness.
 
The final technique to address this obstacle is to practice forgiveness. By letting go of resentments and grudges, you can repair damaged relationships and create a more positive family environment. Forgiveness does not mean ignoring the issue, but rather choosing to let go of negative emotions and work towards resolution.
 
Conclusion
 
Strengthening family bonds takes effort, but it is worth it. By prioritizing family time, finding shared experiences, improving communication, showing support, and practicing forgiveness, you can create a stronger, more resilient family unit. By working together and valuing each other's contributions, you can build the kind of family that provides a foundation of love and support throughout life's challenges.